Cold smoked salmon is a great option if you’re looking for an appetizer that will wow your guests. Hot smoked salmon can be enjoyed as part of the main course dish or as an appetizer. Both types of salmon are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which make them healthy options. Make sure to…
Sliced ham is a high-protein food that’s perfect for when you want to enjoy an out-of-the-package meal. There are many ways to use sliced ham, from making sandwiches to enjoying as part of a salad or buffet dish. You can also cook with it using simple methods like broiling or barbecuing. Smithfield Anytime Favorites sliced…
If you’re looking to cook a turkey quickly but still enjoy the Thanksgiving meal, try thawing it in the fridge or warming it up on a preheated oven or stove. The best way to slow cook your turkey is by placing it in a crockpot and setting it on low for hours or even days….
The peculiar association between the aroma of broccoli and a rather indelicate bodily function has piqued curiosity for generations. This intriguing phenomenon stems from the chemical composition of cruciferous vegetables, a family to which broccoli belongs. Within these greens lie sulfur compounds, notably sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, responsible for the distinct scent. When broccoli undergoes cooking,…
Capsaicin is a molecule that’s responsible for the hot and spicy flavor in chili peppers. During cooking, capsaicin is released and determines the spiciness of your dish. If you want to reduce or avoid the spiciness in your food, try breaking down the capsaicin before it’s cooked by soaking it in water or vinegar. Be…
You can substitute ground or tenderized meat for fresh produce, raw milk and shellfish in many recipes. The texture of your dish will be similar to the original recipe, but the flavor may vary depending on the type of meat you use. Be sure to read the ingredient list before making a substitution so that…
Pectin can be used as a thickener in vegan and vegetarian dishes. Agar-agar is a type of seaweed that can be used to thicken soups, stews and other meals. Both ingredients are available online or at some health food stores. The amount you need will depend on the recipe you’re using them in and how…
When cooking meat, poultry or fish, be sure to account for the shrinkage and purchase raw meats that haven’t been frozen or pre-cooked. Meat will shrink by about 25 percent when cooked, so make sure your dish is large enough to accommodate the size difference. You can use various spices and herbs to keep meat…
Cornbread dressing is a simple, yet flavorful way to dress up any meal. There are many variations of cornbread dressing, so feel free to experiment. Cornbread dressing can be served as a side dish or as the main attraction of your meal. Storecornbread dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum freshness and…
Brining is a process of soaking meat in an acidic solution to add flavor and moisture before cooking. Drying meat removes the water content, which makes it easier to store and cook without loosing juices or fat. You can brine or dry your meat depending on what type of dish you’re preparing; for example, braising…